Two very different events helped mark the Transgender Day of Remembrance. On Nov. 20, individuals held a vigil and procession at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Hundreds passed by the vigil where the the transgender flag was laid upon a closed coffin. The following night, the “Fifth Annual Night of Fallen Stars, A Day of Remembrance” was held at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted. The event celebrated the talents of the local transgender community and paid tribute to the many trans individuals who have lost their lives because of hate crimes. Performers included artists, poets, comedians and a special appearance by Jaila Simms, the first trans winner of a reality series (MTV’s Making His Band). Cyndi Richards (right), the chair of Illinois Gender Advocates, spoke of the event as a “wonderful thing that Center on Halsted is doing to reach out to the youth of the trans community.” Left photos from Liz Thomson; right photo by Jerry Nunn
Transgender Day of Remembrance
